Huskers and Rutgers ready to meet for first time since 1920

Another national leading sellout when NU hosts Rutgers (photo/Huskers.com)

It will be the 337th consecutive sellout for the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium when the Rutgers Scarlet Knights visit today for an early 11 a.m. kick.

This game ends a string of five straight evening/night games for the Huskers and Bo Pelini has stressed to his players to come out ready to go right away. Here are some of the key matchups and players to watch.

Ameer Abdullah vs. Rutgers’ defense.

Abdullah is the third-leading rusher in the nation and Rutgers had trouble against Ohio State when it came to wrapping up tackles. Linebacker Quentin Gause is the Knights’ best run-stopper.

Husker wideouts vs. Knights’ secondary.

Nebraska has two wide receivers (Kenny Bell and Jordan Westerkamp) with 27 catches for more than 500 yards and multiple touchdowns, and entrenched starting cornerback Gareef Glashen will need help from Nadir Barnwell, who is there next best. He may be picked on. Rutgers DBs also need to worry about quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr.’s running ability.

Blackshirts vs. Rutgers’ tight end Tyler Kroft.

Can Rutgers use Kroft as their go-to guy in third down situations. The Preseason All-American candidate has just 10 catches for 109 yards and no touchdowns in seven games. The Huskers have troubles at times covering the tight end, perhaps the Knights use him more in key situations.